With words that can be categorized by character, conversation, concepts, and companionship, Paul describes the shameful human behavior that causes God to give people over to their sinfulness.

Romans 1:28 reads: "And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not fitting."

This verse highlights the consequences of rejecting God and His truth. When people choose to ignore God and His teachings, they are given over to a "reprobate mind," which means a mind that is morally corrupt and unable to discern right from wrong. This state of mind leads to actions that are not fitting or proper.

In the context of renewal, Romans 1:28 serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God. It underscores the importance of keeping God at the forefront of our thoughts and actions. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of a reprobate mind and instead experience the renewal and transformation that comes from a close relationship with God.

This theme of renewal is echoed elsewhere in the Bible, such as in Romans 12:2, which advises believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." By focusing on God's truth and allowing His Word to shape our thoughts and actions, we can experience a renewed mind and a transformed life by following God's word.

 A reprobate mindset, as mentioned in Romans 1:28, refers to a state of mind that is morally corrupt and unable to discern right from wrong. This condition occurs when individuals continually reject and refuse to acknowledge God, leading to a hardened heart and a mind that is given over to sinful behaviors.

In this state, a person is no longer able to understand or accept God's truth and engages in actions that are not pleasing to Him. This mindset is characterized by a persistent pursuit of one's own corrupt desires, ignoring God's guidance and wisdom.

The Bible warns against developing a reprobate mind and emphasizes the importance of keeping a soft heart, open to God's truth and guidance. By seeking God and allowing the Holy Spirit to renew our minds, we can avoid falling into this troubling spiritual condition.

A reprobate mindset is characterized by persistent rejection of God and His truth, leading to moral corruption and sinful behaviors. Here are some examples:

Depraved Mind: This refers to a mind that is corrupt and morally bankrupt, often characterized by a lack of empathy or conscience. Romans 1:28-32 describes those who have "a depraved mind" as being filled with all kinds of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity.

Unbelief: This refers to a rejection of God and His truth, often characterized by a stubborn refusal to acknowledge His existence or accept His Word. Hebrews 3:12 warns against having "an unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God".

Hardened Heart: This refers to a heart that is calloused and resistant to the Holy Spirit’s conviction, often characterized by a lack of repentance and an unwillingness to submit to God. Pharaoh is a prime example of someone with a hardened heart, as he repeatedly refused to let the Israelites go despite being confronted with miraculous signs and plagues (Exodus 7-12).

Repetitive Sin: This refers to a pattern of sinful behavior that is unrepentant and unchanging, often characterized by a lack of guilt or shame. Proverbs 26:11 warns against "a dog returning to its vomit," indicating that those who persist in sin without repentance are like animals that return to their own filth.

Rejection of Correction: This refers to a refusal to accept correction or reproof, often characterized by a defensive and argumentative attitude. Proverbs 15:10 warns against "a scoffer who does not listen to rebuke," indicating that those who reject correction are on the path to destruction.

Hatred of Goodness: This refers to a disdain for what is good and righteous, often characterized by a desire to mock, persecute, or harm those who practice virtue. In John 15:18-19, Jesus warns His disciples that the world will hate them because they are not of the world.

Love of Evil: This refers to a delight in what is evil and wicked, often characterized by a desire to indulge in sinful activities or behaviors. 2 Timothy 3:2-5 describes those with "a love of pleasure rather than a love of God," indicating that their hearts have been given over to their fleshly desires.

Despising Authority: This refers to a rejection of God-ordained authority, often characterized by a rebellious and disrespectful attitude towards those in positions of leadership or authority. 2 Peter 2:10-12 warns against those who "despise authority" and are "bold and arrogant".

By understanding these examples, we can be more vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds against developing a reprobate mindset.

Who do you know that needs Jesus? Look at the world through the eyes of Him who died for us. Be the light! 

Stay strong and be blessed.